Sweden is a party to the Schengen Agreement. This means that U.S. citizens may enter Sweden for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay. You need sufficient funds and a return airline ticket. For additional details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sweden.

Sweden has been subject to terrorist incidents in the past, and the potential for a terrorist incident remains. Like other countries in the Schengen area, Sweden’s open borders with its Western European neighbors could permit terrorist groups to enter and exit the country with anonymity. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

Crime: Sweden has a low crime rate. Violent crimes, such as homicides and sexual assaults, do occur in Sweden; however, the majority of violent crimes occur in larger cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo. Illegal weapons of various types are available in Sweden, as well hand grenades; however armed violence against the public continues to be a rare occurrence. Organized crime groups do commit armed acts against each other.

Most crimes involve the theft of personal property from vehicles, residences, and public areas.

Pickpocketing and petty theft are common in or near major tourist attractions, especially Stockholm’s Old Town, but also at restaurants, amusement parks, museums, bars, and on public transportation, including at airports.

Hotel breakfast rooms and lobbies attract professional, well-dressed thieves who blend in with guests and target purses and briefcases left unguarded by tourists and business travelers.

Do not leave your valuables in parked cars. Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are bootlegs illegal to bring back into the United States, but if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact local police authorities by dialing 112. Crime victims should contact the U.S. Embassy at +(46) (8) 785-5300 after they have contacted local authorities.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

Call us in Washington at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

There is no provision for bail in Sweden, and U.S. citizens who are arrested may be held in custody until the trial is concluded.

Compulsory Military Service: In March 2017, Sweden reintroduced military conscription for men and women. Enrollment will begin July 1, 2017, and Sweden plans for 4,000 recruits annually in 2018 and 2019. Dual U.S./Swedish citizens are also subject to conscription, although persons who have previously done military service may be excluded from the requirement and should contact the Swedish Ministry of Defense for more information.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Accessibility to public facilities and transpotation in Sweden is good. The Swedish Government actively funds programs promoting disability access to streets, public buildings, stores, restaurants, and public transportation. For more information on accessibility in Sweden, visit the Tourist Bureau’s website.

Medical care in Sweden is comparable to that found in the United States. Though it is state-sponsored, it only covers the medical costs of Swedish citizens and residents. Non-residents are expected to pay their own medical costs in full.

You can visit a local medical center or clinic, called an “Akutmottagning” or “Vardcentral.” Be prepared to present your passport.

In case of a medical emergency, dial the emergency telephone number 112.

You can bring personal use medicines into the country. Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Ensure the medication is legal in Sweden. For more information, consult the Medical Products Agency in Sweden.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of Sweden to ensure the medication is legal in Sweden. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving is on the right in Sweden, as in the United States.

Swedish roads are comparable to those in the United States, though secondary roads may be less heavily traveled.

Road signs use standard international symbols and Swedish text. Many urban streets have traffic lanes reserved for public transportation only.

All vehicles on the road must have their headlights turned on, no matter the time of day. You must use snow tires between December 1 and March 31, and you should be experienced driving on ice and snow, if you are going to drive in the winter.

You must use seat belts, and children under 135cm (4ft 5 inches) in height must be seated in approved child or booster seats.

Gas stations in rural areas can be far apart. Some stations are unattended and require a credit card with a chip to purchase fuel.

Traffic Laws: You can use a valid U.S. driver’s license while visiting Sweden, but you must be at least 18 years old to drive.

The maximum speed limit is 120 kilometers per hour (approximately 75 miles per hour).

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription drugs, is considered a very serious offense. The maximum legal blood-alcohol level is .02% - much lower than in the United States. Swedish police often conduct alcohol tests on roads and highways. Drunk driving rules are strictly enforced, and fines can be severe, including possible jail sentences.

Public Transportation: Public transportation in Sweden is the recommended way to travel.

Taxis are more expensive than in major U.S. cities. Most local residents use public transport in Stockholm, as parking can be hard to find and expensive. The bus, train, and subway systems are considered safe. Cyclists are common on many roads, especially in urban areas.

Aviation Safety Oversight:The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Sweden’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Sweden’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sweden should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website (https:homeport.uscg.mil), and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal select “broadcast warnings”.

DISCLAIMER

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.

Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.

Voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in civil and commercial matters are permitted regardless of the nationality of the witness. However, prior permission from the Swedish Foreign Ministry is required. In order to obtain this permission, contact the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm. Oral depositions or depositions on written questions may be taken by U.S. consular officers or by private attorneys at the U.S. Embassy or at another location such as a hotel or office, either on notice or pursuant to a commission. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. Embassy directly.

Sweden and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since June 1, 1989.

For information concerning travel to Sweden, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Sweden.

The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.

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Hague Abduction Convention

The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Sweden. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.

Contact information:

United States Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children’s Issues
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-736-9132Website

The Swedish Central Authority (SCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The SCA performs an administrative role in processing Hague applications. The SCA receives and reviews the Hague application package to make sure it is complete. It confirms receipt of the application by a faxed letter to the U.S. Central Authority and, if necessary, requests any additional information or documentation. If the left-behind parent or legal guardian asks the SCA for a negotiated voluntary return, the SCA will contact the taking parent to inform him/her of the application, describe the procedure under the Convention, and ask if he/she wants to reach a voluntary agreement to avoid litigation.

If the location of the taking parent and child is unknown, the SCA will search for the child by any appropriate means, depending on individual case circumstances. In this respect, the SCA may contact other Swedish authorities, such as tax authorities, the Swedish Migration Authority, law enforcement agencies, social welfare agencies and/or schools where the taking parent and child might be located.

To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Sweden, the applicant should submit the Hague application package by courier to: Office of Children's Issues, SA-29, U.S. Department of State, 2201 C Street, NW, Washington, DC 20520-2818. The Office of Children's Issues will forward the case to the SCA, which will appoint an attorney to file legal proceedings at the Stockholm District Court, which is the initial court to hold proceedings for Hague cases in Sweden. A professional judge and three lay judges adjudicate Hague cases at this level.

The Stockholm District Court then sets a date for hearing and orders the parties to present any written evidence to the court within a very limited period of time. The court will also request the presence of the taken-parent at the hearing. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the SCA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.

There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Swedish central authorities. Additional costs, which are the responsibility of the applicant, may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.

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Return

A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in, Sweden. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.

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Visitation/Access

A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Sweden. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.

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Retaining an Attorney

The District Court handles issues concerning custody of children, residence of children, and a parent’s right of access to a child. Before the court reviews these issues, parents may use mediation with an expert from the municipal social welfare committee, with the aim of reaching an agreement by consensus. Municipalities are legally liable to offer family counseling in Sweden. Contact with the Family Advice Service is voluntary, and families will have to take the initiative by contacting them. Anyone who wishes can contact the Family Advice Service anonymously.

There are also several law firms in Sweden that focus on mediation in custody disputes.

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Mediation

The District Court handles issues concerning custody of children, residence of children, and a parent’s right of access to a child. Before the court reviews these issues, parents may use mediation with an expert from the municipal social welfare committee, with the aim of reaching an agreement by consensus. Municipalities are legally liable to offer family counseling in Sweden. Contact with the Family Advice Service is voluntary, and families will have to take the initiative by contacting them. Anyone who wishes can contact the Family Advice Service anonymously.

There are also several law firms in Sweden that focus on mediation in custody disputes.

Exercising Custody Rights

While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:

Endanger your child and others;

Prejudice any future judicial efforts; and

Could result in your arrest and imprisonment.

The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.

To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.

For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.

Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.

For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.

Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.

DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.

Hague Convention Participation

Hague Adoption Convention Country?

Yes

Are Intercountry Adoptions between this country and the United States possible?

Sweden is not generally considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. There are few children eligible for adoption in Sweden. There is no national adoption waiting list system in Sweden; each municipality is individually responsible for finding homes for any child residing in its respective area. Most intercountry adoptions in Sweden are by legal residents of Sweden who adopt in third countries.

While legally possible, intercountry adoption of a Swedish orphan by foreigners is unlikely. A child residing in Sweden could be adopted to another country ONLY in the case that the foreign prospective adoptive parents were either relatives or other persons with pre-existing ties to the child. In either case, the relevant municipality would identify the child eligible for adoption before the prospective adoptive parents would initiate adoption proceedings in the receiving country.

No Swedish orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare adoption cases from Sweden in which a Swedish child is adopted by relatives in the United States or by person(s) in the United States with other strong ties to the child, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Sweden.

Additionally, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee under U.S. law in order to immigrate to the United States on an IH-3 or IH-4 immigrant visa.

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Who Can Adopt

In addition to the U.S. requirements, Sweden requires prospective adoptive parents to meet the following Swedish requirements in order to adopt a child:

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS: Adoptive parents must be Swedish citizens or legal permanent residents of Sweden in order to adopt in Sweden or from a third county

AGE REQUIREMENTS: Any man or woman 25 years old or older, whether single or married, may adopt with the permission of the court. Persons ages 18-25 may also adopt if the adoption involves a related child, the biological or adoptive child of a spouse, or if special circumstances exist. The Swedish Social Services recommend that prospective adoptive parents should not be older than 42 when they submit an application for consent to adopt, but the law does not provide a maximum age.

MARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS: Spouses must adopt jointly. However, one of the spouses may adopt a child separately when the other spouse’s whereabouts are unknown or is suffering from a serious mental illness. One spouse may also, with the consent of the other spouse, adopt that spouse’s child. A single person may also adopt a child, but common-law spouses may not adopt jointly. Two persons of the same sex can adopt jointly if they live together as registered partners or as a married couple. However, many countries of origin do not allow adoption under these circumstances, which may limit the prospective adoptive parents’ options.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: All prospective adoptive parents residing in, or who are citizens of, Sweden must receive consent to adopt from the local Social Welfare Committee, which is based on a thorough investigation and home study where particular attention is given to the prospective adoptive parents’ knowledge and understanding of how to parent an adopted child, their age, health, employment, criminal background, personal qualities and social network. The consent is valid for two years.

In addition, all such prospective adoptive parents must take part in a parental preparation course assigned by the municipality where they reside. This course must be completed in order for the investigation/home study to be initiated. The cost of the course varies but is approximately 2000 SEK = $250.

If non-residents of Sweden seek adoption of a related child residing in Sweden, the Social Welfare Committee in the area where the child is residing would conduct an investigation to determine if the adoption would be in the best interest of the child. The prospective adoptive parents would be evaluated by the appropriate authorities in their country of residence – in this case the United States.

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Who Can Be Adopted

Because Sweden is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, children from Sweden must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the adoption may take place only if the competent authorities of Sweden have determined that placement of the child within Sweden has been given due consideration and that an intercountry adoption is in the child’s best interests. In addition to Sweden’s requirements, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee to be eligible for an immigrant visa that will allow you to bring him or her to the United States.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:

For specific requirements under Swedish adoption law, please contact Sweden’s Adoption Authority listed under the contact section of this flyer.

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How to Adopt

WARNING: Sweden isparty to the Hague Adoption Convention. Do not adopt or obtain legal custody of a child in Sweden before a U.S. consular officer issues an “Article 5 Letter” in the case. Read on for more information.

Note: Most of the following information refers to the process of adopting from Sweden as country of origin, and would be used only in rare adoption cases from Sweden. Contact the MIA for more information on the process of adopting a child from a third country to Sweden.

THE PROCESS

Because Sweden is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Sweden must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention’s requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.

Choose a U.S. accredited or approved adoption service provider

Apply to USCIS to be found eligible to adopt

Be matched with a child by authorities in Sweden.

Apply to USCIS for the child to be found eligible for immigration to the United States and receive U.S. agreement to proceed with the adoption

Adopt or Gain Legal Custody of child in Sweden.

Obtain a U.S. immigrant visa for your child and bring your child home

Choose a U.S. Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Provider:

The recommended first step in adopting a child from Sweden is to select an adoption service provider in the United States that has been accredited or approved to provide services to U.S. citizens in Convention cases. Only accredited or approved adoption services providers may act as the primary provider in your case. The primary adoption service provider is responsible for ensuring that all adoption services in the case are done in accordance with the Hague Adoption Convention and U.S. laws and regulations. Learn more about Agency Accreditation

Apply to USCIS to be Found Eligible to Adopt:

After you choose an accredited or approved adoption service provider, you must apply to be found eligible to adopt by the responsible U.S. government agency, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), by submitting Form I-800A. Read more about Eligibility Requirements.

Once USCIS determines that you are “eligible” and “suited” to adopt by approving the Form I-800A, your adoption service provider will provide your approval notice, home study, and any other required information to the adoption authority in Sweden as part of your adoption dossier. Sweden’s adoption authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under Swedish law.

Be Matched with a Child by in Sweden:

If both the United States and Sweden determine that you are eligible to adopt, and the municipality in Sweden has determined that a child is available for adoption and that intercountry adoption is in that child’s best interests, the municipal authority in Sweden may provide you with a referral for a child. The referral is a proposed match between you and a specific child based on a review of your dossier and the needs of a specific child in Sweden. The authority in Sweden will provide a background study and other information, if available, about the child to help you decide whether to accept the referral or not. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs and provide a permanent home for a particular child. If you accept the referral, the adoption service provider communicates that to the authority in Sweden. Learn more about this critical decision.

Apply to USCIS for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States and Receive U.S. Agreement to Proceed with the Adoption:

After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval for the child to immigrate to the United States (Form I-800). USCIS will make a provisional determination as to whether the child meets the definition of a Convention Adoptee and will be eligible to enter the United States and reside permanently as an immigrant.

After provisional approval of Form I-800, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden, that is responsible for issuing immigrant visas to children from Sweden. A consular officer will review the Form I-800 and the visa application for possible visa ineligibilities and advise you of options for the waiver of any noted ineligibilities.

WARNING: The consular officer will send a letter (referred to as an “Article 5 Letter”) to the Swedish authority in any intercountry adoption involving U.S. citizen parents and a child from Sweden where all Convention requirements are met and the consular officer determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States. This letter will inform the Swedish authority that the parents are eligible and suited to adopt, that all indications are that the child may enter and reside permanently in the United States, and that the U.S. Central Authority agrees that the adoption may proceed.

Do not attempt to adopt or obtain custody of a child in Sweden before a U.S. consular officer issues the Article 5 Letter in any adoption case.

Remember: The consular officer will make a final decision about a child’s eligibility for an immigrant visa later in the adoption process.

Adopt or Gain Legal Custody of Child from Sweden:

Remember: Before you adopt (or gain legal custody of) a child from Sweden, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of custody for the purposes of adoption from Sweden.

The process for finalizing the adoption or gaining legal custody in Sweden generally includes the following:

ROLE OF THE ADOPTION AUTHORITY: The Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority (MIA) under the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs is the Central Authority under the 1993 Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. MIA is responsible for maintaining a list of authorized adoption agencies in Sweden. They consider requests for authorization and monitor the performance of the authorized adoption agencies. Furthermore, in cases in which prospective adoptive parents seek to adopt a specific child (e.g. a relative), and thus a special reason exists to adopt without the intermediation of an authorized agency, MIA must ultimately consider whether the procedure is acceptable under Swedish law.,

Note: MIA's role as Central Authority is relevant only to intercountry adoptions to Sweden from a third country of origin. The Social Welfare Committee in the municipality of the child's residence in Sweden is the competent authority in the case of adoption of a Swedish child.

ROLE OF THE COURT: The final adoption of a relative child from Sweden to the U.S. will need to take place in a U.S. court. A Swedish court does not have authority to decide on an adoption from Sweden. The Social Welfare Committee in the municipality where the child resides will determine if the child should be adopted or not.

For adoption cases in which the parents reside in Sweden, the adoption decree is issued by the local District Court (Tingsrätt, www.dom.se). Decrees are not available in English. At this point the legal relationship between adoptive parents and adopted child is equal to the relationship between biological parents and children. An adoption in Sweden is not reversible.

When the adoptive parents are residing in Sweden, or are Swedish citizens, the District Court will automatically inform the Swedish population registry, maintained by the Swedish Tax Agency, of the adoption and you may order a new birth certificate from them: www.skatteverket.se. Birth certificates (Personbevis) are available in English. Please make sure that it is signed by an official and carries the stamp of the Agency.

ROLE OF ADOPTION AGENCIES: A list of Swedish adoption agencies authorized to provide adoption services in third countries is available at www.mia.eu.

ADOPTION APPLICATION: For prospective adoptive parents residing in Sweden, the Swedish Intercountry Adoptions Authority web site www.mia.eu has detailed information about Swedish adoption law, policy and procedures. Information is provided in both Swedish and English .

TIME FRAME: The intercountry adoption process of a child from a third country to Sweden can take from two to four years from when the Swedish authorities approve the application of the adoptive parents until the parents receive the child. There is no information available on an estimated timeframe when adopting a related child from Sweden to the United States as it very uncommon.

ADOPTION FEES: In the adoption services contract that you sign at the beginning of the adoption process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your adoption process.

Some of the fees specifically associated with adopting to Sweden from a third country include:

Prospectiveadoptive parents can expect to pay from approximately 80 000 – 200 000 SEK, approximately US $10,000 to $23,000 for adoption services, including the cost for the trip to pick up the child and return to Sweden. There are no government fees. Most parents can qualify for a Swedish government grant of approximately SEK 40 000, approximately US $5,000, when they return with the child to Sweden.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: A list of documents needed to apply for adoption as a Swedish resident/citizen can be found at www.mia.eu .

Note: Additional documents may be requested.

AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS: The United States and Sweden are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. U.S. public documents may be authenticated with Apostilles by the appropriate U.S. Competent Authority

Obtain an Immigrant Visa for your Child and Bring Your Child Home

Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child for the purpose of adopting the child in the United States), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents before your child can travel to the United States:

Birth Certificate

When adopting a relative child from Sweden: Since the adoption will be finalized in the United States, you cannot obtain a new birth certificate in Sweden. You will receive documentation from the Social Welfare Committee giving consent to the adoption of the child, and based on that the child will be allowed to leave Sweden for final adoption in the U.S.

When residing in Sweden and adopting a child from Sweden or from a third country: Swedish birth certificates, so-called Personbevis, are issued by the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket, www.skatteverket.se). When the parents are residing in Sweden, or are Swedish citizens, the District Court will automatically inform the Tax Agency when the adoption is final to update the child's information. Birth certificates (Personbevis) are available in English. Please make sure that it is signed by an official and carries the stamp of the Agency.

Swedish PassportYour child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Sweden.

Swedish passports are issued by the Swedish police. Applications are submitted at your local police station. For application procedures, please see the Swedish police website www.polisen.se.

U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to finalize your application for a U.S. visa for your child from the U.S. Consulate General in Stockholm, Sweden. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S. Consulate General for final review of the case, issuance of a U.S. Hague Adoption Certificate or Hague Custody Certificate, final approval of Form I-800, and to obtain your child’s immigrant visa. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the consular officer must be provided the “Panel Physician’s” medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage. Read more about the Medical Examination.

CHILD CITIZENSHIP ACT

For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States:A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the adoption was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.

For adoptions to be finalized in the United States:An adoption will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship.

*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting. Read more about the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.

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Traveling Abroad

APPLYING FOR YOUR U.S. PASSPORT

A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Sweden. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.

Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.

OBTAINING YOUR VISA

In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation. To find information about traveling to Sweden, see the Department of State's Sweden Specific Information.

Staying Safe on Your Trip

Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.

STAYING IN TOUCH ON YOUR TRIP

When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State. Enrollment makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Sweden, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.

Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.

Reciprocity Schedule

Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee,
number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.

Explanation of Terms

Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.

Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).

Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.

Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.

The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:

A-1

A-2

G-1 through G-4

NATO 1 through NATO 6

An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.

Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.

The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.

Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.

Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.

There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.

Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.

In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).

However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.

Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.

Canadian Nationals

Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.

Mexican Nationals

Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.

Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.

Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.

No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.

V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.

Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:

T-2 (spouse)

T-3 (child)

T-4 (parent)

The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.

The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

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General Documents

Please check back for update.

Birth, Death, Burial Certificates

Birth Certificates

Available

Fees: None.

Document Name: Extract of the population register (“Personbevis”).

Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: On white A4 paper format, stamped with a small round seal with the Swedish Tax Agency´s logo.

Procedure for Obtaining: For a complete version, one must call the Swedish Tax Agency. The complete version should state the applicant's date and place of birth, the names of both parents, their marital status and their date of marriage, if applicable.

Certified Copies Available: Yes.

Alternate Documents: Birth records for persons born before July 1, 1991, can also be obtained both from the parish office (“Pastorsambetet”) in the parish of the applicant's birth. This record is only provided in Swedish.

Death Certificates

Available

Fees: None.

Document Name: ”Dödsfallsintyg” and ”Släktutredning.”

Issuing Authority: Swedish Tax Agency (“Skatteverket”).

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: N/A

Registration Criteria: N/A

Procedure for Obtaining: When a US citizen dies in Sweden, Skatteverket sends the Dodsfallsintyg automatically to the Embassy, at which time we (ACS) contact Skatteverket in order acquire a Personbevis, which we use to contact the next of kin.

Certified Copies Available: Yes.

Alternate Documents: If the death took place before July 1, 1991, a death certificate (“Utdrag Ur Död-och Begravningsbok”) can be obtained from the parish office (“Pastorsambetet”). This record will only be in Swedish.

Procedure for Obtaining: For a complete version, call the Swedish Tax Agency. The complete version should state the applicant's date/place of birth, marital status, date of marriage and name of spouse. Upon request, it can be obtained in English.

Certified Copies Available: Yes.

Alternate Documents: None.

Exceptions: None.

Comments: This document should not be confused with the marriage book, “Vigselintyg,” which is not the official marriage certificate.

Alternate Documents: No. Note that an extract of the population register from the Swedish Tax Agency cannot be used as a divorce decree.

Exceptions: None.

Comments: This record is only provided in Swedish.

Adoption Certificates

Available

Fees: None.

Document Name: “Adoptionshandling.”

Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”). If the national adoption took place before 1979, the adoption certificate is obtained from the National Board of Health and Welfare “Socialstyrelsen.”

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Varies from court to court. Some have court seals.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Court Clerk

Registration Criteria: None.

Procedure for Obtaining: No standardized procedure. Contact individual district court.

Certified Copies Available: Yes.

Alternate Documents: Extract of the population register “Personbevis” (see Birth Certificate). All adoptions will be reflected in the Personbevis.

Exceptions: Sweden distinguishes between domestic adoptions, which require authorization from a Swedish court, and adoptions that have taken place abroad, which do not. The latter are split into the following groups:

Adoptions valid due to Sweden’s being a signatory of the Hague Convention on protection of children and cooperation during international adoptions.

Adoptions that are automatically valid in Sweden due to other laws.

Adoptions valid after authorization by the Family Law and Parental Support Authority.

Adoptions that have taken place in another Nordic country and thereby potentially valid in Sweden.

Adoptions determined to be “weak” and lead to a “re-adoption” in Sweden.

Procedure for Obtaining: Personal appearance at one of the police’s passport offices (“Passexpedition”), at which point a photo is taken.

Certified Copies Available: No

Alternate Documents: None that is by definition a valid ID card, but driver’s licenses are generally accepted for all situations except international travel.

Exceptions: None.

Comments: None.

Police, Court, Prison Records

Police Records

Available. A police certificate criminal record abstract (Utdrag ur belastningsregistret - utlandsändamål) is a record taken from the National Police Board and is issued to all persons upon application. Application forms (including forms in English) for a Swedish national crime record extract (Form RPS 442.1) can be downloaded from the Swedish Police webpage or obtained from the local police station. Complete instructions regarding payment and the charge for return postage can be found on the form. A copy of the population registration certificate or a passport copy must be enclosed with the application. The police certificate will not list any criminal offense which occurred more than ten years prior to the certificate request. Time for processing the application is approximately 2 weeks. The National Police Board will accept the application by fax or by e-mail. Fax number: 010-56 35334, E-mail address: brud.rps@polisen.se.

Court and Prison Records

Available

Fees: Free if shorter than 10 pages. 10 pages cost SEK 50 and more than that is SEK 2 per page.

Document Name: “Domstolsprotokoll.”

Issuing Authority: The district court (“Tingsrätten”).

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: N/A

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Tingsrätten.

Registration Criteria: None.

Procedure for Obtaining: Court records are available from the criminal division of the court where the person was charged.

Procedure for Obtaining: Application forms (including forms in English 442.4) for a Swedish national crime record extract (Form RPS 442.1) can be downloaded from the Swedish Police webpage www.polisen.se . Complete instructions regarding payment and the charge for return postage can be found on the form. A copy of the population registration certificate or a passport copy must be enclosed with the application. The police certificate will not list any criminal offense which occurred more than ten years prior to the certificate request. Time for processing the application is approximately two weeks. The National Police Board will accept the application by post or by e-mail: utlandsutdrag@polisen.se

Certified Copies Available: No.

Alternate Documents: None.

Exceptions: None.

Comments: The first section of the extract from the criminal records registry is always provided in five languages: Swedish, English, German, French, and Spanish. Possible convictions are not translated and will appear only in Swedish.

Procedure for Obtaining: Personal appearance at one of the police’s passport offices (“Passexpedition”), at which point the applicant’s photo and fingerprints are taken.

Alternate Documents: None.

Exceptions: None.

Comments: None.

Other Documents Available: None.

Other Records

Swedish Citizenship Act

The Swedish Parliament passed legislation that provides for changes in Swedish nationality law which took effect July 01, 2001.

The law changed the Swedish position on dual nationality, making it possible for a foreign adult resident in Sweden to naturalize as a Swedish citizen without first giving up his/her prior citizenship. Conversely, Swedish citizens who naturalize in another country will no longer lose their Swedish nationality. Former Swedes may also apply for reinstatement of their list Swedish citizenship between July 01, 2001 and 30 June 2003.

The law also:

Made provision for children born out of wedlock to a Swedish father to acquire Swedish nationality;

Provided for expeditious acquisition of Swedish nationality by adopted children of Swedish citizens;

Facilitated acquisition of Swedish nationality for stateless children; and

Allowed alien children and young people residing in Sweden to acquire Swedish nationality after 5 years.

Change of Name Certificates

A change of name certificate is issued by the National Swedish Patent and Registration Office (Patent-och Registreringsverket) in Stockholm. Copies of the certificate are available. A birth record (Personbevis), indicating change of name and when and where the change took place, issued by the Tax Administration (Skatteverket) - also serves as evidence of name-change.

Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.

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